CRYSTAL VARGAS

Percussionist Crystal Vargas is no stranger to the stage. Whether she’s performing in the hottest clubs or playing for world-renowned artists, Crystal's showmanship has made her one of the most sought after percussionists in the industry.

 

As a four-year old, she was captivated by her father's (Glen Vargas) Salsa band.  His keyboardist, Juan "Pops" Santos, gave her a partly broke güiro and it was then her musical journey began.  By the age of 5, Crystal suddenly had the Salsa rhythm down on congas and by age 6 she became a featured performer on both Sabado Gigante and El Show de Medio Dia.  Over the next 10 years, Crystal continued performing with her father and her own band, No Limit.  After graduating from Marist High School (Bayonne, NJ) where she was a 3-sport athlete, Crystal enrolled at Rutgers University on scholarship to play softball.  

During her senior year in 2005, a chance meeting with Robert Aaron(keyboardist/saxophonist) led to an impromptu performance with Grammy Award artist, Wyclef Jean at a Rutgers concert!  A mentorship was quickly born as Aaron chose Crystal to join his band backing artist, Kat Deluna.     

 

Crystal has showcased her talents on shows such as “Live! With Regis And Kelly”, BET's Black Girls Rock Awards Show, and Rihanna's music video "What's My Name?".  She has performed alongside Paul Simon, Bernie Williams, Gladys Knight, Jill Scott, and Sheila E., to name a few.  This recognition led to endorsement deals with Toca Percussion and Gibraltar Hardware. 

As an independent percussionist, Crystal currently performs alongside radio DJs from Hot 97, Power 105, and La Mega 97.9.  While playing percussion is her first passion, Crystal's versatility in the entertainment industry has led her to MC'ing, DJ'ing, and musical production.